Tottenham Hotspur are Europa League champions for the first time in 41 years, and it wasn’t just Brennan Johnson’s well-timed finish that made the difference in a tense 1-0 win over Manchester United—it was a heroic defensive display led by Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven.
Romero, wearing the captain’s armband like it was sewn into his skin, produced a commanding performance worthy of the spotlight. Whether it was reading United’s long balls, hounding Rasmus Hojlund, or psyching out Harry Maguire, the Argentine defender was everywhere. He made more clearances than any Spurs player and kept his unbeaten record in finals intact.
And when United finally broke through? Enter Micky van de Ven. The Dutchman’s breathtaking goal-line clearance from Hojlund’s header was a match-winning moment in itself—highlight-reel stuff that will go down in Spurs folklore.
In goal, Guglielmo Vicario flirted with disaster early on but found redemption with two key saves late in the game, denying both Garnacho and Shaw. Spurs bent, but never broke.
Spurs Take Their Shot, United Stumble Yet Again
Johnson’s scrappy goal just before half-time—courtesy of a Pape Sarr cross that pinballed off Luke Shaw—was enough to hand Spurs the win. But it was also enough to plunge Manchester United deeper into crisis. Ruben Amorim’s side, already enduring their worst-ever Premier League campaign, will now miss out on Europe entirely.
Bruno Fernandes had a night to forget, squandering a gilt-edged chance and failing to influence the game. Casemiro looked miles away from his Madrid days, and Andre Onana’s hesitation between the sticks only added to the chaos. Even bright sparks like Amad Diallo and Garnacho couldn’t drag United back into the match.
For Tottenham, it wasn’t just a victory—it was a revival. After a rollercoaster season, manager Ange Postecoglou can now breathe easier. A trophy, Champions League qualification, and a core of warriors in defense? Spurs fans haven’t had this much hope in years.
As for United, questions abound. From the sidelines to the starting XI, change seems inevitable. But in Bilbao, it was clear: Spurs had the hunger, the heart—and, finally, the silverware to show for it.
Your daily dose of sports action starts at DanredSports.com—where passion meets reporting!